Casualties unknown

Pilot Lands at Wrong Airport, Crashes During Go-Around (N8499U)

Villa Rica, GA, US

On August 22, 1985, a Cessna 172E (registration N8499U) operated by Dogie Stockmar was involved in an aviation accident near Villa Rica, GA. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-07-04Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot on a local flight inadvertently approached a different airport at dusk. Realizing the error at 40 feet, he attempted a go-around but struck trees near the runway.

Overview

A pilot conducting a local flight from Stockmar Airport mistakenly approached a nearby airport about half a mile away during dusk. The pilot did not recognize the error until the aircraft was approximately 40 feet above the runway. In response, he initiated a go-around maneuver, but the aircraft struck trees near the end of the runway and crashed.

Flight Details

The pilot departed from Stockmar Airport for a local flight. After flying in the vicinity, he returned to the area at dusk intending to land. However, he inadvertently lined up for an approach to a different airport located approximately half a mile from Stockmar Airport. The pilot did not realize his mistake until the aircraft was about 40 feet above the runway.

Accident Sequence

Upon recognizing that he was approaching the wrong airport, the pilot commenced a go-around. During the go-around, the aircraft impacted trees near the departure end of the runway, resulting in a crash.

Operational Status

The operator reported that the pilot was not authorized to fly the aircraft. No further details regarding authorization or pilot qualifications were provided.

Investigation Notes

The investigation focused on the pilot's actions during the final approach and go-around. No probable cause has been stated in the source material.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 22 Aug 1985 Cessna 172E accident near Villa Rica, GA?

A pilot on a local flight inadvertently approached a different airport at dusk. Realizing the error at 40 feet, he attempted a go-around but struck trees near the runway.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 22 Aug 1985 involved a Cessna 172E, registration N8499U, operated by Dogie Stockmar, at Villa Rica, GA.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001214X37377. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.